I had to laugh at Google when I searched "gardening on permafrost' -- Google says: The Page Does Not Exist.
I guess that is a message about trying to grow a garden on permafrost.
I did find this brief discussion.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/S...
Quote:
TemperatureSoil temperature regulates germination, root growth and availability of nutrients. Soil temperatures range from permafrost at a few inches below the surface to 38 C (100 F) in Hawaii on a warm day. The color of the ground cover and insulating ability have a strong influence on soil temperature. Snow cover and heavy mulching will reflect light and slow the warming of the soil, but at the same time reduce the fluctuations in the surface temperature.
Below 50 cm (20 in) soil temperature seldom changes and can be approximated by adding 1.8 C (2 F) degrees to the mean annual air temperature
Most often soil temperatures must be accepted and agricultural activities adapted to them.
1.To maximize germination and growth by timing of planting.
2.To optimize use of anhydrous ammonia by applying to soil below 10 C (50 F).
3.To prevent heaving and thawing of frosts from damaging shallow rooted crops.
4.To prevent damage to soil tilth by freezing of saturated soils.
5.To improve uptake of phosphorus by plants.
Otherwise soil temperatures can be raised by drying soils or using clear plastic mulches. Organic mulches slow the warming of the soil
End Quote.
permafrost soils are classified as Gelisols.
